It's the second game of the year, but the first one under the lights as South Carolina welcomes Towson to Columbia. Frankly, it's kind of nice easing our way into the season with two "easier" opponents especially as the new offense continues to grow. Still, you can never overlook an opponent and you have to focus on some areas to not only win the game but improve overall.
On my podcast Cox Talking Gamecocks I outline the "crows to the game" every week. Why crows? Because everyone does keys to the game and we have our rooster crow, so why not. Let's get into it.
1. Lock in early
Settle in right away. There's going to be a lot of adrenaline on the sideline for the first night game in Willy-B and it won't be the last one at home this season either. Use this game as a litmus test for settling down ahead of the first snaps to avoid any mental mistakes early in the game.
2. Get production off the edge on defense
Continue to find production off the edge. This is another game where the likes of Anthony Addison, Julian Walker, and others (maybe George Wilson?) can get in quality reps ahead of Dylan Stewart returning. Towson quarterback Andrew Indorf isn't necessarily a dual-threat, but he is mobile enough to escape the pocket. Find a way to get home off the edge and create pressure and that can translate to continued development for the group.
3. Create chaos on defense
Generate a turnover in the first half. This is likely another game where the starters are pulled at some point later in the game. It would be great to see the first unit create a turnover, put the offense in prime position, and carry that momentum.
4. Stay penalty-free on offense
South Carolina must continue to play disciplined. The Gamecocks had just two penalties against the offense last week. It showed they can hold themselves to a higher, more disciplined, standard than we have seen in the past. Now, the challenge is to play to that standard consistently. That starts by doing so twice in a row and making a habit of it.
5. Keep the run game fresh
This group is no joke and if Week 1 was any indicator, the run game will be a big weapon for the Gamecocks this year. Don't get me wrong, I love Matt Fuller in that No. 1 spot. But seeing a healthy rotation and giving everyone meaningful reps in this game will improve development. It will also give this staff a more clear idea of how to best utilize each player. Plus, who doesn't love seeing us rip a long run?
6. Give the ball more to Nitro Tuggle
LaNorris just missed a touchdown to him on the contested catch, but he was less involved than I initially expected in week 1. The big pickup from the portal can be a solid contributor and compete to be a bonafide WR2, so seeing him have multiple catches would be great ahead of SEC play next week.
It's set to be a good night in Williams-Brice as Carolina looks to make it two wins in a row to open the year. Sit back, (try to) relax, and go Cocks!
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